Panama has officially modernized part of its identification requirements for foreigners living or traveling in the country. According to Executive Decree No. 26, issued on 11 November 2025, expats can now present their passport or migration ID digitally when requested by authorities.

The new regulation modifies Article 1 of Executive Decree 804 of 2009 and clarifies that a digital version of official identification is valid when shown through a mobile phone or any other technological medium. This includes clear photographs of the passport or digital files stored on the device.

Why This Matters for Expats

This change brings practical convenience to the thousands of expats who live, work, invest, or travel throughout the country. Previously, foreigners were obligated to carry physical identification at all times to comply with Article 91 of Decree Law No. 3 of 2008. Many found this requirement inconvenient or risky due to the potential loss or theft of a passport.

Under the new rule:

• You can show your passport photo on your phone.

• You can store a scanned copy or PDF on your device.

• You can carry a copy in any digital format that is easy to access.

• Authorities must accept the digital version as valid identification.

This adjustment aligns Panama with global trends that recognize digital documentation and makes day-to-day life easier for expats whether they reside in Panama City, Boquete, Pedasi, Coronado, or anywhere else in the country.

Practical Tips

To make the most of this new flexibility:

• Save a high-resolution photo of your passport’s main page.

• Keep a secure backup in cloud storage in case your device is lost.

• Store it in a folder or app where you can access it quickly if required.

• Avoid editing or modifying the image to prevent issues during verification.

Authorities may still request the physical passport for more formal procedures, but everyday interactions involving identity confirmation should now be smoother.

A Positive Step Toward Digital Modernization

For long-term residents and newcomers alike, this decree represents a small but meaningful update. It promotes safety, modern convenience, and aligns Panama with digital ID practices already adopted in many countries.

Panama continues taking steps to create a more streamlined and accessible environment for its growing international community.

Date written: 16 November 2025